Things non-Qataris should know when buying property in Qatar: Insider tips

Foreign property ownership in Qatar is witnessing a surge in the Qatari real estate market. After the new ownership law (Foreign Real Estate Ownership Law) was introduced by the government, buying property in Qatar by global investors and expats living in Qatar has become smooth and secure, and they even gain Qatari residency by buying property here.

The economy of Qatar is booming, with a stable political set-up and lucrative real estate investment opportunities, the country has become an attractive destination for foreign investors and expats alike. So, the question, can foreigners buy property in Doha, can be answered with a resounding yes!

In this article, we have covered everything expats and foreign investors need to know when investing in Qatari real estate.

Types of Property Ownership

There are two kinds of property ownership laid down for non-Qatari buyers as per the law of the country. The property eligibility for a non-Qatari includes owning offices, shops, villas, apartments, residential complexes, units, and real estate developmental lands in designated areas.

Freehold Property

Cabinet Resolution No. 28 of 2020 has defined freehold Property. Qatari may own properties in 9 freehold areas.

Under this type of holding, a buyer can become the owner of the entire property of his preference in any allocated area under freehold. Buying property in a freehold area is not limited to a specific period.

Owners of freehold properties and their beneficiaries will become eligible for the advantages of real estate ownership, including absolute rights to sell, rent, or mortgage their property and perform all the desired actions on their real estate. It is important to note that all these rights are granted through inheritance.

Moreover, there are no predefined criteria for the sale of freehold property, that is, a property owner can sell his estate whenever he wishes to do so. Most of the deals involve “off-plan” real estate properties for sale in Qatar, obtained directly from the respective developers. If the home buyer wants to sell his house prior to the construction, it is mandatory to go through the developer to do so.

Leasehold Properties

The ownership of leasehold property is specified for a certain period, similar to leasehold in other countries. Typically, it is granted ownership for a maximum number of 99 years, which can be renewed for a similar time limit according to the convenience and preference of the parties involved. Leasehold property rights are also transferred through inheritance.

Benefits of Buying Property in Qatar

Residency Rights

For expanding offshore real estate investments in the country, the Qatari government offers a two-tiered initiative for foreign investors and expats. Non-Qatari would buy property in Doha and get residency rights in the country. If they purchase or lease property worth US$200,000 (730,000 Qatari Rials), they become eligible to hold residency permits for themselves and their families.

An investment worth US$ 1 million or 3.65 million Qatari Rials will enable the buyers to obtain remanent residency rights with additional benefits such as free healthcare and free education for their families. However, the investors are required to stay for at least 90 days every year in the country to avail the benefits of residency rights.

An office for Non-Qatari Real Estate Ownership has been set up by the government to provide guidance to foreign investors, ex-pats and real estate fund owners.

Things to consider when applying for Property Ownership

Always understand the legal requirements of the country before investing in the real estate market. Obtain a residency permit either as an investor or an employee-sponsored by a Qatari company to be eligible to buy property. Also, they need to have a clean bill of criminal record and be over 18 years of age.

Ensure that the real estate agency through which you are purchasing your property is well known and registered under the law of the country. You can seek our assistance if you are a foreigner wanting to invest in real estate in Qatar. The Pearl Gates is a leading realtor in Qatar and Dubai that provides premium and luxury properties to local and global customers alike.

Analyse which type of property you want to buy. If you are looking for a home to live in, it is advisable to check out the variety of properties available in Qatar. From apartments and penthouses to townhouses and villas, choose a home that will be ideal for your comfortable and luxurious lifestyle. If you are buying to let, it will be more feasible to invest in properties which offer higher ROI.

Freehold Ownership Areas

Here is a list of the 9 neighbourhoods in Qatar that have been designated as Freehold areas where foreigners can buy or invest in real estate.

West Bay Lagoon

A luxury area complete with villas and townhouses with access to a private beach and breathtaking view of the Arabian Gulf. The proximity of the West Bay Lagoon to the City Centre and all its high-end amenities make it one of the most sought-after areas to invest in by foreigners.

The Pearl

The Pearl is the largest man-made island in the capital city of Doha. Designed with the intent to create an eclectic mix of high-end luxury residential and commercial buildings for the ex-pats and citizens of Qatar.

Al Khor

Al Khor is a beautiful coastal spot in the country, with Al Khor Resort offering upscale properties and world-class amenities to buyers.

Rawdat Al Jahhaniya

A newly developed commercial and sporting centre developed by Al Rayyan.

Al Qasser

A seafront neighbourhood located on the eastern coast of Qatar. Its easy accessibility to West Bay, Pearl, and Al Dafna makes it very promising for investors.

Al Dafna

A highly developed upcoming seaside district of Qatar. It is being developed as a central business hub; you can purchase commercial properties in Al Dafna.

Onaiza

It is known as the new foreign embassy district of Qatar. Here are popular landmarks in Onaiza:

• Al Meera Supercenter on Al Bayan Street
• Al Meera Supercenter on Dahl Al Misfir Street
• Doha Radio Station on Al Khulaifat Street
• New Onaiza Park on Al Intisar Street
• Onaiza Park on Al Rafiei Street
• Qatar Fencing Federation on Al Markhiya Street
• Al Wasail

Upcoming area in Qatar, being developed for commercial and residential purposes.

Al Kharij

A significant area developed for commercial and residential investments.

Jabal Theyleeb

Jabal Theyleeb, also known as Jabal Thuaileb, lies close to the planned city of Lusail. The majority of the buildings feature traditional architectural elements to honour Qatari heritage.

Apart from the above mentioned areas, non-Qataris can own properties in Msheireb, Freej Abdul Aziz, Doha Al Jadeed, Old Al Ghanim, Al Rufaa, Old Al Hitmi, Al Salata, Fereej Bin Mahmoud, Rawdat Al Khail, Al Mansoura, Freej Bin Durham, Najma, Umm Ghuwailina, Al Khulaifat, Al Sadd, Mirqab Al Jadeed, Fereej Al Nasr are in and around Doha International Airport area.

Why invest in the Qatari real estate market

Qatar is one of the most affluent countries in the world and the Middle East, in particular, real estate investments have been the driving force in its booming economy. The Pearl Gates are pioneer in providing extraordinary services to our clients and deals in ultra-luxurious properties with world-class amenities and lifestyles for our customers. 

Get to know further about Qatar Property Market insights area-wise if you are considering buying a property in the Qatari property market!

Contact us at +974 4410 4253  or drop us a mail at contacts@thepearlgates.com.